Georgia Ponirakou

Hi Georgia, please introduce yourself.

I am Georgia, a photographer and poet, based in Athens, Greece. Analog photography became a hobby during my studies in biology around 2007. Back then I shot only b/w and many of those films are well hidden now. I was self taught for many years and in 2016 – 2018 i studied at the Focus school of photography and video which was a nice experience.

What does analog photography mean to you? What excites / fascinates you about it?

Analog means something unique, uncertain, dust, grain,waiting. I like that. In our digital world being an analog photographer sometimes means to be a loner. I like it when during scanning, i discover lightleaks and grains that weren’t there in the first place.

In your opinion, what are the advantages and disadvantages of analogue photography?

I mentioned some of the advantages above. As for the disadvantages, the cost of film is a major one.

Do you concentrate on a certain topic in your work? ​

I shoot a variety of things. Sometimes it depends on my mood. I stage things and people, sometimes my photographs are spontaneous. I shoot my everyday life and my environment. In a way my work is personal documentary.

Are there (analogue) photographers who have influenced your aesthetic and approach?

I like a lot of analogue photographers so each one of them has influenced me somehow.

Do you have certain cameras and films that you prefer to work with?

When I find the Superia 400 I can’t resist. Also Kodak Portra 160 and any expired film I can find are lovely options.

Speaking of films: What does your workflow look like? ​

I don’t develop by myself but I do scan my films. Their is no post process.

What advice would you have for other photographers who are reading this interview?

I don’t like being advised so I don’t have any advices. I do what I love, this is the key to everything.

If you publish your work on Instagram: curse or blessing?

It depends. Sometimes I regret it. Social media in general are a fascinating trap.

Which 3 photo books can you recommend / should you definitely own?

Well, the first is not exactly a photobook, but it is a perfect textbook on how to see things photographically, the title is “Photography: a critical introduction” by Liz Wells. I also recommend the “Traces within” by my beloved friend Eva Voutsaki and finally “the Essential Solitude” by Tereza Zelenkova. Both unique books, both by women artists.

Thank you so much for your time!